What are some examples of metaphors and allusions in "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow"?

There are many examples of allusions found in the short
story "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow." Here are a few
examples:

• References to the American
  Revolutionary War, including the battle of White
  Plains.


• Cotton Mather's History of New England
  Witchcraft figures prominently.


• The Dutch old
  country is mentioned; an example is the town of
  Saardam.


• Irving refers to the Russian "Don
  Cossacks."


• There is a reference to "the cap of
  Mercury."


• There is a comparison to the "knight-errant" of
  medieval times.


• The patron of dance, St. Vitus, is
  referenced.


• The British spy, Major Andre, who was hanged
  in the area, is mentioned several times.